Renowned writer Sarah Joseph was conferred with the 2024 Mathrubhumi Literary Award at a ceremony held on Saturday at KP Kesava Menon Hall in Kozhikode, Mathrubhumi reported.
The award comprises a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh, a citation, and a sculpture created by artist M V Devan. Born on 10 February 1946, in Kuriachira, Thrissur district, Sarah Joseph is the the daughter of Louise and Kochumariam. She received her early education at Mar Thimotheus High School, Chelakkottukara, and retired as a professor from Government College. A pioneering figure in Kerala’s feminist movement, she has also served as a member of the Kerala Sahitya Akademi.
Presenting the award, Jnanpith laureate Pratibha Ray heaped praise on Kozhikode and said, “Sarah Joseph is not just a name in Malayalam literature, she is a powerful voice. She raised her voice for the silenced. Her commitment to speaking the truth is evident in her stories, novels and articles. I express my sincere gratitude to Mathrubhumi for delegating me to present the Mathrubhumi Literary Award to Sarah Joseph,” Ray said.
Mathrubhumi managing director M V Shreyams Kumar said Sarah Joseph is someone who expresses her opinions without any fear at a time when freedom of expression and freedom of press are being suppressed.
E Santosh Kumar, a member of the award jury, described Joseph as “one of Kerala’s most culturally valuable people.”
The jury, which unanimously selected Joseph for the honor, was chaired by acclaimed writer N S Madhavan and included E Santosh Kumar and M Leelavathi. The committee described her work as a “revolution of love” articulated through cultural history and literary expression.
Sarah Joseph has received multiple accolades over the years, including the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 2003 for her novel Aalahayude Penmakkal.
